A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Newark

Moving can actually be simple, and it feels much smoother when you plan ahead. At Shoreview Moving and Storage, our team has assisted countless Newark customers with moving since 1920. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Gather all contracts and policies in one folder
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• Have address update info and emergency contacts ready to go
• Choose a safe but handy spot for your paperwork

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• Decide what to sell and put up ads or schedule a sale
• Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Donation Pickups

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
• Keep everything to donate in a designated area
• Give items to family, friends, or neighbors

Selling Unwanted Items

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
• Schedule and organize your in-person sale
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Keep Crucial Papers to Keep Close

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Place all important documents together in a secure, easy-to-find spot

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• Store photos in a secure digital folder or print copies for reference

Managing Perishables and Hazardous Supplies

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Make arrangements for things you can’t take in the truck

Setting Up Your Utilities

• List out contacts for all necessary utility services
• Double-check that services like gas or water are connected at the new home
• Set the dates to turn off electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash service at your old address
• Coordinate new connections so you’re never without power or internet
• Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Handling Secure Storage Before the Move

• If changing banks (long distance move) make plans for emptying out your safe deposit box before moving day
• Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
• Book an appointment with your bank or storage manager
• Decide on a secure way to move sensitive or pricey items
• Inspect the unit before leaving to avoid forgotten items

Change of Address

• File a change of address form to reroute your mail
• Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and any subscriptions you have

Sharing Your Move with Schools and Doctors

• Inform teachers, medical professionals, and veterinarians of your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• Arrange care and confirm schedules for pets in advance
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Planning for Work Absences

• Request time off work for moving day, and for packing or unpacking if you think you'll need it
• Keep colleagues in the loop for smooth coverage
• Prepare auto-replies so contacts know you’re moving
• Make a list of any urgent work tasks to finish before your days off
• Book your internet installation in advance for remote work

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Planning Your New Space

• Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
• Check the dimensions of entryways and stairs in advance
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Valuables & Essentials

• Set aside valuables, jewelry, important documents, and anything else you don't want packed by the movers
• Have a go-bag ready with the basics for your first night
• Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
• Personally move anything that can’t be replaced

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Make sure nothing gets left behind for entry or exit
• Keep keys and cards handy for a smooth move-in

4 Weeks Before Moving

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Check on required documents or proof of coverage
• Make arrangements for access to necessary moving facilities
• Complete all forms before moving day to avoid delays
• Make sure you know the allowed moving hours for each building to avoid surprises

Arranging for Clean-Up

• Hire professionals to clean your old place post-move
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• Highlight important rooms or surfaces for cleaning crews
• Stock up on cleaners and set aside time for the job

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• Book your time at the storage unit early
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Organize everything in storage for fast loading
• Arrange for new storage and double-check details

Letting Others Know About Your Move

• Let your neighbors know your moving date so they can expect extra activity and moving trucks
• Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
• Apologize in advance for any disturbance caused by the move

Arranging Parking for the Truck

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• Talk to officials or property managers about permits
• Mark the space with cones or signs the night before, if allowed, to save the spot for the truck

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

• Make sure every utility is disconnected at your old home and connected at the new address
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Packing Personal Items

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
• Add a prominent “Do Not Move” note so they stay with you

Prepare an Essentials Box

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Round up all borrowed goods from others or community resources
• Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Call your pharmacy and arrange to have any prescriptions transferred to a pharmacy near your new home
• Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Pull the plug on every major appliance before moving day
• Remove everything from refrigerators and freezers
• Sanitize interiors so your appliances stay odor-free
• Allow enough time to defrost your freezer in advance
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Layer extra padding around anything delicate
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Review Details for Move Day

• Reach out to verify what time your movers will show up
• Remind them of anything out of the ordinary
• Make sure you have contact info handy for the moving team on the day

Get Your Paperwork Organized

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Add all entry tools to your folder so you have them
• Write down or save essential phone numbers for fast help
• Organize everything in a folder or envelope that's easy to carry and access on moving day

Prepare Overnight Bags for the Family

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Include chargers, medications, favorite toys, and anything you'll want right away at your new place

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Round up everything valuable or sentimental
• Make sure valuables stay with you, not in the moving truck

Last-Minute Purge

• Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
• Dispose of, give away, or repurpose things you don’t need
• Check closets, drawers, and storage areas for forgotten things

Prepare Cash for Moving Day

• Withdraw enough cash for tips and on-the-go purchases

Make Sure Caregivers Are Ready for Kid or Pets

• Review details with sitters, daycare, or boarding
• Make sure communication is clear for hand-offs and updates

Empty All Trash and Recycle Bins

• Scrub and sanitize trash cans and recycling bins before moving
• Make sure nothing is left behind and everything is ready for the next resident

Arrange Help at Your New Home

• Arrange for a helper to greet service providers and deliveries
• Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

Get Your Fridge Ready for Moving

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Unplug the refrigerator and leave the doors open to defrost
• Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odors or mold

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Make sure it's completely dry to avoid any mildew
• If you have a front-loading washer, secure the drum with moving bolts to protect it during the move
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

Closing Out Your Old Place

• Remain close by to clarify details or address special requests
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Walk through each room with the movers as they take inventory of your belongings
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
• Power down everything before you lock up

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Peek in unlikely places for things you may have missed

• Put all access devices in a labeled spot for the next resident
• Write down any helpful tips or reminders for the new people

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in

• Use your floor plan or notes to show the movers exactly where you want each piece of furniture and each box
• Create visual aids so nothing gets misplaced

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Quickly review each item for problems before accepting delivery

• Report any issues right away for proper claims
• Snap pictures as proof for your insurance

• Test all major systems as soon as you move in
• Run a quick test on essential appliances for safety

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• Always confirm with your landlord before altering entry systems

Get the Basics Out Right Away

• Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
• Double-check that each family member has comfort and basics for the evening

• If you arranged for the movers to help unpack, let them know which rooms or boxes to start with
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• Go online or visit the DMV to update licenses and registration info
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register your pets with the new city or county if needed

• Take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbors
• A friendly hello can help you settle in and start building community

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Save all your moving documents, receipts, and contracts in one place
• Store documents safely for tax season or reimbursement

• Pack a small bag or box with phone chargers, daily medications, snacks, and bottled water so you can grab them easily during the move
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Before unplugging your TV, computer, or entertainment center, take clear photos of the cable connections and setup
• Use these photos as a reference to quickly and correctly reconnect everything at your new home

• Set out bedding and basics so bedtime is easy
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Research and save phone numbers you might need urgently
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Newark Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Newark, Shoreview Moving and Storage stands out with our commitment to quality service at affordable rates.

• Trust – Trusted by Newark families and businesses alike since 1920
• Professionalism – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Smart Savings – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Take the worry out of moving day – count on the professionals at Shoreview Moving and Storage to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free Newark Moving Quote or give us a ring at 321-321-8878 today!